Westpac Banking Corporation ABN What s important to you is important to us Westpac Group Corporate Governance Statement

Transcription

1 Westpac Banking Corporation ABN What s important to you is important to us Westpac Group Corporate Governance Statement

2 Corporate Governance Introduction This Corporate Governance Statement, which has been approved by the Board, describes our corporate governance framework, policies and practices as at 2 November Framework and approach Our approach to corporate governance is based on a set of values and behaviours that underpin day-to-day activities, provide transparency and fair dealing, and seek to protect stakeholder interests. This approach includes a commitment to excellence in governance standards, which Westpac sees as fundamental to the sustainability of our business and our performance. It includes monitoring local and global developments in corporate governance and assessing their implications. We have equity securities listed on securities exchanges in Australia, New Zealand and the United States. Australia We comply with the ASX Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations with 2014 amendments (ASXCGC Recommendations) published by the ASX Limited s Corporate Governance Council (ASXCGC). We must also comply with the Corporations Act and as an ADI must comply with governance requirements prescribed by APRA under Prudential Standard CPS 510 (Governance). This statement addresses each of the eight ASXCGC Recommendations with an explanation of our corporate governance practices, demonstrating our compliance with each Recommendation. Further details about the ASXCGC Recommendations can be found on the ASX Limited (ASX) website New Zealand Westpac also has ordinary shares quoted on the NZX, which is the main board equity security market operated by NZX Limited. As an overseas listed issuer in New Zealand, we are deemed to satisfy and comply with the NZX Listing Rules, provided that we remain listed on the ASX and comply with the ASX Listing Rules. The ASX, through the ASXCGC Recommendations, and NZX, through the NZX Corporate Governance Best Practice Code, have adopted similar comply or explain approaches to corporate governance. However, the ASXCGC Recommendations may materially differ from the corporate governance rules and the principles of NZX s Corporate Governance Best Practice Code. United States Westpac has American Depositary Shares (ADS) representing its ordinary shares quoted on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), trading under the symbol WBK. Under the NYSE Listing Rules, foreign private issuers are permitted to follow home country practice in respect of corporate governance in lieu of the NYSE Listing Rules. However, we are still required to comply with certain audit committee and additional notification requirements. We comply in all material respects with all NYSE Listing Rules applicable to us. Under the NYSE Listing Rules, foreign private issuers are required to disclose any significant ways in which their corporate governance practices differ from those followed by domestic US companies. We have compared our corporate governance practices to the corporate governance requirements of the NYSE Listing Rules and note the significant differences below. The NYSE Listing Rules require that, subject to limited exceptions, shareholders be given the opportunity to vote on equity compensation plans and material revisions to those plans. In Australia there are no laws or securities exchange listing rules that require shareholder approval of equity based incentive plans or individual grants under those plans (other than for Directors, including the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)). Westpac s employee equity plans have been disclosed in the Remuneration Report in Section 9 of the Directors report, which is subject to a non-binding shareholder vote at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and grants to our CEO are approved by shareholders. The details of all grants under our equity-based incentive plans have been disclosed in Note 37 of our financial statements for the year ended 30 September The NYSE Listing Rules provide that the Board Nominations Committee s responsibilities should include selecting, or recommending that the Board select, the Director nominees for the next annual meeting for shareholders, and overseeing the evaluation of the Board. The Board, rather than the Board Nominations Committee, reviews and recommends the Director nominees for election at the AGM and undertakes an annual review of its performance Westpac Corporate Governance Statement 1

3 Governance framework Board Delegation Accountability External auditors Group Audit Assurance Legal or other professional advice Delegation Assurance, Oversight through Reporting Chief Executive Officer Board Committees Nominations Remuneration Risk & Compliance Provide assurance on risk components of financial statements Provide assurance on remuneration components of financial statements Audit Technology The diagram above shows the current Committees of the Board. From time to time the Board may form other Committees or request Directors to undertake specific extra duties. In addition, from time to time the Board participates (either directly or through representatives) in due diligence committees in relation to strategic decisions, capital and funding activities. The Executive Team, Disclosure Committee and Executive Risk Committees are not Board Committees (that is, they have no delegation of authority from the Board) but sit beneath the CEO and the Board Committees to implement Board-approved strategies, policies and management of risk across the Group. The key functions of the Board and each of the Board Committees are outlined in this Corporate Governance Statement. All Board Committee Charters are available on our corporate governance website at Westpac Corporate Governance Statement

4 Board, Committees and oversight of management Board of Directors Roles and responsibilities The Board Charter outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Board. Key responsibilities in summary are: approving the strategic direction of Westpac Group; evaluating Board performance and determining Board size and composition; considering and approving the Westpac Board Renewal Policy; appointing and determining the duration, remuneration and other terms of appointment of the CEO, Deputy CEO, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and other Group Executives; determining the remuneration of persons whose activities in the Board s opinion affects the financial soundness of Westpac, any person specified by APRA, and any other person the Board determines; evaluating the performance of the CEO; succession planning for the Board, CEO and Group Executives; approving the appointment of Group Executives, General Manager Group Audit and Chief Compliance Officer & Group General Counsel and monitoring the performance of senior management; approving the annual targets and financial statements and monitoring performance against forecast and prior periods; determining our dividend policy; determining our capital structure; approving our risk management strategy and frameworks, and monitoring their effectiveness; considering the social, ethical and environmental impact of our activities and monitoring compliance with our sustainability policies and practices; monitoring Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) issues in Westpac Group and considering appropriate WHS reports and information; maintaining an ongoing dialogue with Westpac s auditors and, where appropriate, principal regulators; and internal governance including delegated authorities, policies for appointments to our controlled entity Boards and monitoring resources available to senior executives. Corporate governance Delegated authority The Constitution and the Board Charter enable the Board to delegate to Committees and management. The roles and responsibilities delegated to the Board Committees are captured in the Charters of each of the five established Committees, namely: Audit; Risk & Compliance; Nominations; Remuneration; and Technology. The Board Charter, Board Committee Charters and the Constitution are available on our corporate governance website The Delegated Authority Policy Framework outlines principles to govern decision-making within the Westpac Group, including appropriate escalation and reporting to the Board. The Board has also delegated to the CEO, and through the CEO to other executives, responsibility for the day-to-day management of our business. The scope of, and limitations to, management delegated authority is clearly documented and covers areas such as operating and capital expenditure, funding and securitisation, and lending. These delegations balance effective oversight with appropriate empowerment and accountability of management. Independence Together, the Board members have a broad range of relevant financial and other skills and knowledge, combined with the extensive experience necessary to guide our business. Details are set out in Section 1 of the Directors report. All of our Non-executive Directors satisfy our criteria for independence, which align with the guidance provided in the ASXCGC Recommendations and the criteria applied by the NYSE and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The Board assesses the independence of our Directors on appointment and annually. Each Director provides an annual attestation of his or her interests and independence. Directors are considered independent if they are independent of management and free from any business or other relationship that could materially interfere with, or reasonably be perceived to materially interfere with, the exercise of their unfettered and independent judgment. Materiality is assessed on a case by case basis by reference to each Director s individual circumstances rather than by applying general materiality thresholds. Each Director is expected to disclose any business or other relationship that he or she has directly, or as a partner, shareholder or officer of a company or other entity that has an interest in Westpac or a related entity. The Board considers information about any such interests or relationships, including any related financial or other details, when it assesses the Director s independence Westpac Corporate Governance Statement 3

5 Size and membership of Board Committees as at 30 September 2015 Status Board Audit Committee Board Risk & Compliance Committee Board Nominations Committee Board Remuneration Committee Board Technology Committee Lindsay Maxsted Chairman, Non-executive, Chair Brian Hartzer CEO, Executive Elizabeth Bryan Non-executive, Chair Ewen Crouch Non-executive, Chair Alison Deans Non-executive, Craig Dunn Non-executive, Robert Elstone Non-executive, Peter Hawkins Non-executive, Chair Peter Marriott Non-executive, Chair The charts below demonstrate that our Board comprises a majority of independent Directors and show the tenure of our current Non-executive Directors. Length of tenure of Non-executive Directors Balance of Non-executive and Executive Directors 7 8 years 12.5% 8 9 years 12.5% 0 1 years 12.5% 1 2 years 12.5% Non-executive Directors Non-executive Chairman 6 7 years 12.5% 3 4 years 12.5% 2 3 years 25% Executive Director Westpac Corporate Governance Statement

6 Corporate governance Chairman The Board elects one of the independent Non-executive Directors as Chairman. Our Chairman is Lindsay Maxsted, who became Chairman on 14 December The Chairman s role includes: providing effective leadership to the Board in relation to all Board matters; guiding the agenda and conducting all Board meetings; in conjunction with the Company Secretaries, arranging regular Board meetings throughout the year, confirming that minutes of meetings accurately record decisions taken and, where appropriate, the views of individual Directors; overseeing the process for appraising Directors and the Board as a whole; overseeing Board succession; acting as a conduit between management and the Board, and being the primary point of communication between the Board and CEO; representing the views of the Board to the public; and taking a leading role in creating and maintaining an effective corporate governance system. CEO Our CEO is Brian Hartzer. The CEO s role includes: leadership of the management team; developing strategic objectives for the business; and the day-to-day management of the Westpac Group s operations. Board meetings The Board had eight scheduled meetings for the financial year ended 30 September 2015, with additional meetings held as required. In addition to the Board considering strategic matters at each Board meeting, the Board also discusses our strategic plan and approves our overall strategic direction on an annual basis. The Board also conducts a half year review of our strategy. The Board conducts workshops on specific subjects relevant to our business throughout the year. Board meetings are characterised by robust exchanges of views, with Directors bringing their experience and independent judgement to bear on the issues and decisions at hand. Non-executive Directors regularly meet without management present, so that they can discuss issues appropriate to such a forum. In all other respects, senior executives are invited, where considered appropriate, to participate in Board meetings. They also are available to be contacted by Directors between meetings. Meetings attended by Directors for the financial year ended 30 September 2015 are reported in Section 8 of the Directors report. Nomination and appointment As set out in its Charter, the Board Nominations Committee is responsible for: developing and reviewing policies on Board composition, strategic function and size; reviewing and making recommendations to the Board annually on diversity generally within the Westpac Group, measurable objectives for achieving diversity and progress in achieving those objectives; planning succession of the Non-executive Directors; reviewing the process for the orientation and education of new Directors and any continuing education for existing Directors; reviewing eligibility criteria for the appointment of Directors; recommending appointment of Directors to the Board; and considering and recommending candidates for appointment to the Boards of relevant subsidiaries. Westpac seeks to maintain a Board of Directors with a broad range of financial and other skills, experience and knowledge necessary to guide the business of the Westpac Group. Westpac seeks to maintain a diverse Board which at a minimum collectively has: strategic capabilities and commercial acumen; an understanding of the financial services industry (including wealth management) and global business perspectives; accounting or related financial management qualifications and experience; an understanding of risk management; an understanding of the application of technology in large complex businesses; a background in, or understanding of, customer insights and customer strategy; knowledge of governance and compliance matters in highly regulated listed entities; experience in people matters including workplace cultures, morale, management development, succession and remuneration; experience on the boards of other significant listed companies; and an ability to contribute to gender diversity. The Board Nominations Committee considers and makes recommendations to the Board on candidates for appointment as Directors. Such recommendations pay particular attention to the mix of skills, experience, expertise, diversity and other qualities of existing Directors, and how the candidate s attributes will balance and complement those qualities. External consultants are used to access a wide base of potential Directors. Prior to a Director s appointment or consideration for election or re-election by shareholders, Westpac conducts appropriate due diligence and provides shareholders with all material information relevant to a decision on whether or not to elect or re-elect a Director. New Directors receive an induction pack which includes a letter of appointment setting out the expectations of the role, conditions of appointment including the expected term of appointment, and remuneration. This letter conforms to the ASXCGC Recommendations Westpac Corporate Governance Statement 5

7 Term of office The Board may appoint a new Director, either to fill a casual vacancy or as an addition to the existing Directors, provided the total number of Directors does not exceed fifteen Non-executive Directors and three Executive Directors. Except for the Managing Director, a Director appointed by the Board holds office only until the close of the next AGM but is eligible for election by shareholders at that meeting. Our Constitution states that at each AGM, one-third of eligible Directors, and any other Director who has held office for three or more years since their last election, must retire. In determining the number of Directors to retire by rotation, no account is to be taken of Directors holding casual vacancy positions or of the CEO. The Directors to retire by rotation are those who have been the longest in office. A retiring Director holds office until the conclusion of the meeting at which he or she retires but is eligible for re-election by shareholders at that meeting. The Board makes recommendations concerning the election or re-election of any Director by shareholders. In considering whether to support a candidate, the Board takes into account the results of the Board performance evaluation conducted during the year. The Westpac Board Renewal Policy limits the maximum tenure of office that any Non-executive Director other than the Chairman may serve to nine years, from the date of first election by shareholders. The maximum tenure for the Chairman is twelve years (inclusive of any term as a Director prior to being elected as Chairman), from the date of first election by shareholders. The Board, on its initiative and on an exceptional basis, may exercise discretion to extend the maximum terms specified above where it considers that such an extension would benefit the Group. Such discretion will be exercised on an annual basis and the Director concerned will be required to stand for re-election annually. Education On appointment, all Directors are offered an induction program appropriate to their experience to familiarise them with our business, strategy and any current issues before the Board. The induction program includes meetings with the Chairman, the CEO, the Board Committee Chairs and each Group Executive. The Board encourages Directors to continue their education by participating in workshops held throughout the year, attending relevant site visits and undertaking relevant external education. Access to information and advice All Directors have unrestricted access to company records and information, and receive regular detailed financial and operational reports from senior management. Each Director also enters into an access and indemnity agreement which, among other things, provides for access to documents for up to seven years after his or her retirement as a Director. The Chairman and other Non-executive Directors regularly consult with the CEO, CFO and other senior executives, and may consult with, and request additional information from, any of our employees. All Directors have access to advice from senior internal legal advisors including the Chief Compliance Officer & Group General Counsel. In addition, the Board collectively, and all Directors individually, have the right to seek independent professional advice, at our expense, to help them carry out their responsibilities. While the Chairman s prior approval is needed, it may not be unreasonably withheld. Company Secretaries We have two Company Secretaries appointed by the Board. The Senior Company Secretary, who is also Legal Counsel to the Board, attends Board and Board Committee meetings and is responsible for providing Directors with advice on legal and corporate governance issues together with the Chief Compliance Officer & Group General Counsel. The Group Company Secretary attends Board and Board Committee meetings and is responsible for the operation of the secretariat function, including implementing our governance framework and, in conjunction with management, giving practical effect to the Board s decisions. The Group Company Secretary is accountable to the Board through the Chairman, on all matters to do with the proper functioning of the Board. Profiles of our Company Secretaries are set out in Section 1 of the Directors report. Board Committees Composition and independence Board Committee members are chosen for the skills and experience they can contribute to the respective Board Committees and their qualifications are set out in Section 1 of the Directors report. The membership of each Board Committee is set out in the table entitled Size and membership of Board Committees as at 30 September 2015 in this Corporate Governance Statement. All of the Board Committees are comprised of independent Non-executive Directors. The CEO is also a member of the Board Technology Committee. Operation and reporting Scheduled meetings of the Board Committees occur quarterly, with the exception of the Board Technology Committee which has scheduled meetings three times a year. Each member s attendance at Board Committee meetings held during the financial year ended 30 September 2015 is reported in Section 8 of the Directors report. All Board Committees are able to meet more frequently as necessary. Each Board Committee is entitled to the resources and information it requires and has direct access to our employees and advisers. The CEO attends all Board Committee meetings, except where he has a material personal interest in a matter being considered. Senior executives and other selected employees are invited to attend Board Committee meetings as required. All Directors can receive all Board Committee papers and can attend any Board Committee meeting, provided there is no conflict of interest Westpac Corporate Governance Statement

8 Corporate governance Performance Board, Board Committees and Directors The Board undertakes ongoing self-assessment as well as commissioning an annual performance review by an independent consultant. The review process conducted in 2015 included an assessment of the performance of the Board, the Board Committees, and each Director with outputs collected, analysed and presented to the Board. The Board discussed the results and agreed follow up action on matters relating to Board composition, process and priorities. The Chairman also discusses the results with individual Directors and Board Committee Chairs. The full Board (excluding the Chairman) reviews the results of the performance review of the Chairman and results are then privately discussed by the Chairman of the Board Risk & Compliance Committee with the Chairman. Management The Board, in conjunction with its Board Remuneration Committee, is responsible for approving the performance objectives and measures for the CEO and other senior executives, and providing input into the evaluation of performance against these objectives. The Board Risk & Compliance Committee also refers to the Board Remuneration Committee any matters that come to its attention that are relevant with respect to remuneration policy or practices. Management performance evaluations for the financial year ended 30 September 2015 were conducted following the end of the financial year. There is a further discussion on performance objectives and performance achieved in the Remuneration Report contained in the Directors report. All new senior executives receive a letter of appointment setting out the conditions and expectations of the role, together with an extensive briefing on our strategies and operations and the respective roles and responsibilities of the Board and senior management. Advisory Boards Westpac has established Advisory Boards for its operations in Asia and for each of BankSA and Bank of Melbourne, to advise management on the strategies and initiatives of those businesses within the overall Group strategy. Responsibilities of the Advisory Boards include: providing advice to management on management s strategies and initiatives to continue to strengthen the position and identity of the business; providing advice to management of the relevant business so as to promote and preserve its distinct position and identity and align business values with those of the relevant communities served; considering and assessing reports provided by management on the health of the relevant business; acting as ambassadors for the business, including through supporting community and major corporate promotional events to assist in building relationships with the bank s customers, local communities and the business and government sector, and advising senior management on community matters relevant to the provision of financial services in the community it serves; and alerting management to local market opportunities and issues of which Advisory Board members are aware that would enhance the provision of services to customers and potential customers and the position of the bank in its local communities. Ethical and responsible decision-making Code of Conduct and Principles for Doing Business Our Code of Conduct (Code) describes the standards of conduct expected of our people, both employees and contractors. The seven principles making up the Code are: we act with honesty and integrity; we comply with laws and with our policies; we do the right thing by our customers; we respect confidentiality and do not misuse information; we value and maintain our professionalism; we work as a team; and we manage conflicts of interest responsibly. The focus of each of the principles is to provide a set of guiding principles to help us make the right decisions ensuring we uphold the reputation of the Group. The Code has the full support of the Board and the Executive Team and we take compliance with the Code very seriously. Our Principles for Doing Business (Principles) underpin the Group s commitment to sustainable business practice and community involvement. In summary: we believe our success depends on the trust and confidence placed in us by our customers, people, shareholders, suppliers, advisers and the community; we believe in maintaining the highest level of governance and ethical practice while protecting the interests of our stakeholders; we believe in putting our customers at the centre of everything we do; we believe our people are a crucial element of a successful service business; we are committed to managing our direct and indirect impacts on the environment; we believe being actively involved in our community is fundamental to the sustainability of our business; and we believe our suppliers should be viewed as partners in our sustainability journey. The Principles align with key global initiatives that promote responsible business practices. The Principles apply to all Directors, employees and contractors. We also have a range of internal guidelines, communications and training processes and tools, including an online learning module entitled Doing the Right Thing, which apply to and support both our Code and the Principles Westpac Corporate Governance Statement 7

9 Key policies We have a number of key policies to manage our regulatory compliance and human resource requirements. We also voluntarily subscribe to a range of external industry codes, such as the Code of Banking Practice and the epayments Code. Code of Ethics for Senior Finance Officers The Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting complements our own Code. The Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting is designed to assist our CEO, CFO and other principal financial officers in applying the highest ethical standards to the performance of their duties and responsibilities with respect to accounting practice and financial reporting by requiring those officers to: act honestly and ethically, particularly with respect to conflicts of interest; provide full, fair, accurate and timely disclosure in reporting and other communications; comply with applicable laws, rules and regulations; promptly report violations of the Code; and be accountable for adherence to the Code. Conflicts of interest The Group has a detailed conflicts of interest framework, which includes a Group policy supported by specific divisional policies and guidelines aimed at identifying and managing actual, potential or apparent conflicts of interest. The conflicts of interest framework includes a separate Westpac Group Gifts and Hospitality Policy. This Policy provides our employees with guidance to manage their obligations relating to the giving and receiving of gifts or hospitality. The Board All Directors are required to disclose any actual, potential or apparent conflicts of interest upon appointment and are required to keep these disclosures to the Board up to date. Any Director with a material personal interest in a matter being considered by the Board must declare their interest and, unless the Board resolves otherwise, may not be present during the boardroom discussions or vote on the relevant matter. Our employees and contractors We expect our employees and contractors to: have in place adequate arrangements for the management of actual, potential or apparent conflicts of interest; obtain consent from senior management before accepting a directorship on the board of a non-westpac Group company; disclose any material interests they have with our customers or suppliers to their manager and not be involved with customer relationships where they have such an interest; not participate in business activities outside their employment with us (whether as a principal, partner, director, agent, guarantor, investor or employee) without approval or when it could adversely affect their ability to carry out their duties and responsibilities; and not solicit, provide facilitation payments, accept or offer money, gifts, favours or entertainment that might influence, or might appear to influence, their business judgment. Fit and Proper Person assessments We have a Board approved Westpac Group Fit and Proper Policy that meets the requirements of the related APRA Prudential Standards. In accordance with that Policy, we assess the fitness and propriety of our Directors and also of individuals who perform specified statutory roles required by APRA Prudential Standards or ASIC licensing requirements. The Chairman of the Board (and in the case of the Chairman, the Board) is responsible for assessing the Board Directors, Non-executive Directors on subsidiary Boards, Group Executives, external auditors and actuaries. An executive Fit and Proper Committee is responsible under delegated authority of the Westpac Board for undertaking assessments of all other employees who hold statutory roles. In all cases the individual is asked to provide a detailed declaration, and background checks are completed. Concern reporting and whistleblower protection Under the Westpac Group Whistleblower Protection Policy, our employees and contractors are encouraged to raise any concerns about activities or behaviour that may be unlawful or unethical. The Policy outlines all reporting channels, including our concern reporting system Concern Online, which enables reporting on an anonymous basis. Concerns may include suspected breaches of our Code, Westpac Policies or regulatory requirements. Employees who raise concerns may choose to involve the Whistleblower Protection Officer, who is responsible for protecting the employee or contractor against victimisation as a result of making a report. We investigate reported concerns in a manner that is fair and objective to all people involved. If the investigation shows that wrongdoing has occurred, we are committed to changing our processes and taking action in relation to employees or contractors who have behaved incorrectly. Outcomes may also involve reporting the matter to relevant authorities and regulators. Statistics about concerns raised are reported quarterly to both the Board Risk & Compliance Committee and the Westpac Group Executive Risk Committee. Securities trading Under the Westpac Group Securities Trading Policy, Directors, employees and contractors (and their associates ) are restricted from dealing in any securities and other financial products if they possess inside information. They are also prohibited from passing on inside information to others who may use that information to trade in securities. In addition, Directors and any employees or contractors who, because of their seniority or the nature of their position, may have access to material non-public information about Westpac (known as Prescribed Employees) are subject to further restrictions, including prohibitions on trading prior to and immediately following annual and half year results announcements. We manage and monitor these obligations through: the insider trading provisions of our Policy, which prohibit any dealing in any securities where a Director or employee has access to inside information that may affect the price of those securities; placing limitations upon Directors, employees and contractors participating in a new product issue where their position puts them in an actual, potential or apparent position of conflict of interest; restrictions limiting the periods in which the Directors and Prescribed Employees can trade in our shares or other company securities (Blackout Periods); requiring Directors and Prescribed Employees to either obtain approval or notify their intention to trade outside Westpac Corporate Governance Statement

10 Corporate governance Blackout Periods and confirm that they have no inside information; monitoring the trading of Westpac securities by Directors and Prescribed Employees; maintaining a register of Prescribed Employees, which is regularly updated; notifying ASX of trades by Directors of Westpac securities as required under the ASX Listing Rules; and forbidding employees from entering into hedging arrangements in relation to their unvested employee shares or securities, whether directly or indirectly. Diversity Westpac Group has a Group Diversity Policy that sets out the diversity initiatives for the Westpac Group. In this context, diversity covers gender, age, ethnicity, accessibility, flexibility, cultural background, sexual orientation and religious beliefs. The objectives of the policy are to ensure that the Westpac Group: has a workforce profile that delivers competitive advantage through the ability to garner a deep understanding of customer needs; has a truly inclusive workplace where every individual can shine regardless of gender, cultural identity, age, work style or approach; leverages the value of diversity for all our stakeholders to deliver the best customer experience, improved financial performance and a stronger corporate reputation; and continues to take a leadership position on diversity practices and setting the agenda in the external community. To achieve these objectives the Westpac Group: has set Board determined, measurable objectives for achieving gender diversity. The Board assesses annually both the objectives and progress in achieving them; assesses pay equity on an annual basis; encourages and supports the application of flexibility policies into practice across the business; is committed to proactively assisting Indigenous Australians to access employment across our brands; implements our Accessibility Action Plan for employees and customers with a disability, including ensuring employment opportunities are accessible for people with disabilities; and actively promotes an environment of inclusion for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) employees. The implementation of these objectives is overseen by the Westpac Group Diversity Council chaired by the CEO. The Board, or an appropriate Board Committee, receives regular updates from the Westpac Group Diversity Council on these diversity initiatives. We also continue to listen to the needs of our employees through the engagement of our employee action groups, our employee surveys and bi-annual diversity focussed surveys. In October 2010, the Board set a measurable objective to increase the proportion of women in leadership roles (over 5,000 leaders from our Executive Team through to our bank managers) from 33% to 40% by 2014, which was achieved in September 2012, two years ahead of schedule. Westpac now strives for a market leading target of 50% women in leadership by 30 September At 30 September 2015, the proportion of women employed by Westpac Group was as follows: Board of Directors: 22%; leadership 1 roles: 46%; and total Westpac workforce: 59%. 1 Women in Leadership refers to the proportion of women (permanent and maximum term) in people leadership roles or senior roles of influence as a proportion of all leaders across the Group. It includes the Executive Team, General Managers, Senior Managers as direct reports to General Managers and the next two levels of management. Excludes Westpac Pacific Westpac Corporate Governance Statement 9

11 Sustainability We view sustainable and responsible business practices as important for our business and shareholder value. Sustainability is about managing risks and opportunities in a way that best balances the long term needs of all our stakeholders our customers, employees, suppliers, investors and community partners, as well as the wider community and the environment at large. Our management and reporting of sustainability aim to address the issues that we believe are the most material for our business and stakeholders, now and in the future. We understand that this is an evolving agenda and seek to progressively embed the management of sustainability issues into business as usual practice, while also anticipating and shaping emerging social issues where we have the skills and experience to make a meaningful difference and drive business value. Reporting We report on our performance against our sustainability strategy in the Annual Review and Sustainability Report, the Annual Report, the Sustainability Performance Report and the full year and half year ASX results. This reporting is subject to independent limited assurance, performed in accordance with the Australian Standard on Assurance Engagements 3000 (revised) Assurance Engagements Other Than Audits or Reviews of Historical Financial Information ( ASAE 3000 ). The AA1000 Principles Standard and the Global Reporting Initiative G4 Guidelines are also used by the assurance provider to test the extent to which sustainability policies and processes are embedded across the organisation. Financial reporting Approach to financial reporting Our approach to financial reporting reflects three core principles: that our financial reports present a true and fair view; that our accounting methods comply with applicable accounting standards and policies; and that our external auditor is independent and serves security holders interests. The Board, through the Board Audit Committee, monitors Australian and international developments relevant to these principles, and reviews our practices accordingly. The Board delegates oversight responsibility for risk management between the Board Audit Committee and the Board Risk & Compliance Committee. Similarly, the Board delegates oversight responsibility for the preparation of remuneration reports and disclosures to the Board Remuneration Committee. Board Audit Committee As detailed in its charter, the Board Audit Committee has oversight of: the integrity of the financial statements and financial reporting systems; the external audit engagement, including the external auditor s qualifications, performance, independence and fees; performance of the internal audit function; financial reporting and compliance with prudential regulatory reporting. With reference to the Board Risk & Compliance Committee, this includes an oversight of regulatory and statutory reporting requirements; and procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of financial complaints, including accounting, internal controls or auditing matters, and the confidential reporting by employees of concerns regarding accounting or auditing matters. The Board Audit Committee reviews, discusses with management and the external auditor, and assesses: any significant financial reporting issues and judgments made in connection with the preparation of the financial reports; the processes used to monitor and comply with laws, regulations and other requirements relating to external reporting of financial and non-financial information; the major financial risk exposures; and the process surrounding the disclosures made by the CEO and CFO in connection with their personal certifications of the annual financial statements. As part of its oversight responsibilities, the Board Audit Committee also conducts discussions with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders including: the Board Risk & Compliance Committee, CFO, Chief Risk Officer (CRO), General Manager Group Audit, management and the external auditor, about our major financial risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control such exposures; the General Manager Group Audit and external auditor concerning their audits and any significant findings, and the adequacy of management s responses; management and the external auditor concerning the half year and annual financial statements; management and the external auditor regarding any correspondence with regulators or government agencies, and reports which raise material issues or could impact on matters regarding the Westpac Group s financial statements or accounting policies; and the Chief Operating Officer and the Chief Compliance Officer & Group General Counsel regarding any legal matters that may have a material impact on, or require disclosure in, the financial statements. Periodically, the Board Audit Committee consults with the external auditor without the presence of management about internal controls over financial information, reporting and disclosure and the fullness and accuracy of Westpac s financial statements. The Board Audit Committee also meets with the General Manager Group Audit without management being present. Financial knowledge The Board Audit Committee comprises four independent, Nonexecutive Directors and is chaired by Peter Marriott. All Board Audit Committee members have appropriate financial experience, an understanding of the financial services industry and satisfy the independence requirements under the ASXCGC Recommendations, the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (as amended) and its related rules, and the NYSE Listing Rules. The Board has determined that Mr Marriott, member of the Board Audit Committee, is an audit committee financial expert and independent in accordance with US securities law. The designation of Mr Marriott as an audit committee financial expert does not impose duties, obligations or liability on him that are greater than those imposed on him as a Board Audit Committee member, and does not affect the duties, obligations or liability of any other Board Audit Committee Westpac Corporate Governance Statement

12 Corporate governance member or Board member. Audit committee financial experts are not deemed as an expert for any other purpose. External auditor The role of the external auditor is to provide an independent opinion that our financial reports are true and fair, and comply with applicable regulations. Our external auditor is PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), appointed by shareholders at the 2002 AGM. Our present PwC lead audit partner is Michael Codling and the review audit partner is Wayne Andrews. Mr Codling and Mr Andrews assumed responsibility for these roles in December 2011 and January 2015 respectively. The external auditor receives all Board Audit Committee and Board Risk & Compliance Committee papers, attends all meetings of both committees and is available to Committee members at any time. The external auditor also attends the Annual General Meeting (AGM) to answer questions from shareholders regarding the conduct of its audit, the audit report and financial statements and its independence. As our external auditor, PwC is required to confirm its independence and compliance with specified independence standards on a quarterly basis. The roles of lead audit partner and review audit partner must be rotated every five years and cannot be resumed by the same person for a minimum of five years. We strictly govern our relationship with the external auditor, including restrictions on employment, business relationships, financial interests and use of our financial products by the external auditor. Engagement of the external auditor To avoid possible independence or conflict issues, the external auditor is not permitted to carry out certain types of non-audit services for Westpac and may be limited as to the extent to which it can perform other non-audit services as specified in our Pre-approval of engagement of PwC for audit and non-audit services (Guidelines). Use of the external audit firm for any non-audit services must be assessed and approved in accordance with the pre-approval process determined by the Board Audit Committee and set out in the Guidelines. The breakdown of the aggregate fees billed by the external auditor in respect of each of the two most recent financial years for audit, audit-related, tax and other services is provided in Note 39 to our financial statements for the year ended 30 September A declaration regarding the Board s satisfaction that the provision of non-audit services by PwC is compatible with the general standards of auditor independence is provided in Section 10 of the Directors report. Group Audit (internal audit) Group Audit is Westpac s internal audit function and includes the Credit Portfolio Review team both of which provide the Board and Executive Management with an independent and objective evaluation of the adequacy and effectiveness of management s control over risk. Group Audit is governed by a Charter approved by the Board Audit Committee that sets out the purpose, role, scope and high level standards for the function. Group Audit covers the governance, risk management and internal control frameworks of Westpac and our wholly owned subsidiaries. It has access to all of our wholly owned entities and conducts audits and reviews following a risk-based planning approach. The General Manager Group Audit has a direct reporting line to the Chairman of the Board Audit Committee and an administrative line to the Chief Financial Officer. Group Audit also has direct access to the Chief Executive Officer. Group Audit s responsibilities include providing regular reports to the Board Audit Committee and, as deemed appropriate, the Board Risk & Compliance Committee, and raising any significant issues with those Committees. Market disclosure We maintain a level of disclosure that seeks to provide all investors with equal, timely, balanced and meaningful information. Consistent with these standards the Westpac Group maintains a Board approved Market Disclosure Policy, which governs how we communicate with our shareholders and the investment community. The policy reflects the requirements of the ASX, NZX and other offshore stock exchanges where we have disclosure obligations, as well as relevant securities and corporations legislation. Under our policy, information that a reasonable person would expect to have a material effect on the price or value of our securities must first be disclosed via the ASX unless an exception applies under regulatory requirements. Our Disclosure Committee is responsible for determining what information should be disclosed publicly under the policy, and for assisting employees in understanding what information may require disclosure to the market on the basis that it is price sensitive. The Disclosure Committee is comprised of the CEO, the Executive Team, the Chief Compliance Officer & Group General Counsel and the General Manager, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability. The Chief Operating Officer is the Disclosure Officer. The Disclosure Officer is ultimately responsible for all communication with relevant stock exchanges and notifying regulators in any jurisdiction as a result of market disclosure. Once relevant information is disclosed to the market and available to investors, it is also published on our website. This includes investor discussion packs, presentations on and explanations about our financial results. Our website information also includes Annual Review and Sustainability Reports, Annual Reports, results announcements, CEO and executive briefings (including webcasts, recordings or transcripts of all major events), notices of meetings and key media releases. Shareholder communication and participation We seek to keep our shareholders fully informed through a variety of communication mediums. These are regularly reviewed to improve our communications and utilise new technologies. These approaches include: direct two-way communications with shareholders via mail and ; the publication of all relevant company information in the Investor Centre section of our website; and access to all major market briefings and shareholder meetings via webcasts. Shareholders are provided with advance notice of all major market briefings and shareholder meetings, through ASX announcements and/or the publication of an investor calendar of events on our website. Shareholders are given the option to receive information in print or electronic format from both Westpac and its share registry. We regard the AGM as an important opportunity for engaging and communicating with shareholders. Shareholders are encouraged to attend and actively participate in our AGM, which is webcast and can also be viewed at a later time from our website. Shareholders who are unable to attend the AGM are able to lodge their proxies through a number of channels, 2015 Westpac Corporate Governance Statement 11

13 including via the internet. At the time of receiving the Notice of Meeting, shareholders are also invited to put forward questions they would like addressed at the AGM. CEO and CFO assurance The Board receives regular reports from management about our financial condition and operational results, as well as that of our controlled entities. Before the Board approves the financial statements for a financial period, the CEO and the CFO provide formal statements to the Board, and have done so for the financial year ended 30 September 2015, that state that in all material respects: Westpac s financial records have been properly maintained in that they: - correctly record and explain its transactions, and financial position and performance; - enable true and fair financial statements to be prepared and audited; and - are retained for seven years after the transactions covered by the records are completed; the financial statements and notes comply with the appropriate accounting standards; the financial statements and notes give a true and fair view of Westpac s and its consolidated entities financial position and of their performance; any other matters that are prescribed by the Corporations Act and regulations as they relate to the financial statements and notes are satisfied; and the declarations provided in accordance with section 295A of the Corporations Act are founded on a sound system of risk management and internal control, and that the system is operating effectively in all material respects in relation to financial reporting risks. Risk management Roles and responsibilities The Board is responsible for reviewing and approving our overall risk management strategy, including determining our appetite for risk. The Board has delegated to the Board Risk & Compliance Committee responsibility for providing recommendations to the Board on Westpac Group s riskreward strategy, setting risk appetite, approving frameworks and policies for managing risk, and determining whether to accept risks beyond management s approval discretion. The annual review of the Risk Management Strategy was completed by the Board Risk & Compliance Committee and was approved by the Board during the year ended 30 September The Board Risk & Compliance Committee monitors the alignment of our risk profile with our risk appetite, which is defined in the Board Statement of Risk Appetite, and with our current and future capital requirements. The Board Risk & Compliance Committee receives regular reports from management on the effectiveness of our management of Westpac s material business risks. More detail about the role of the Board Risk & Compliance Committee is set out later in this section under Board Risk & Compliance Committee. The CEO and Executive Team are responsible for implementing our risk management strategy and frameworks, and for developing policies, controls, processes and procedures for identifying and managing risk in all of Westpac s activities. We adopt a Three Lines of Defence approach to risk management which reflects our culture of risk is everyone s business and that all employees are responsible for identifying and managing risk and operating within the Group s desired risk profile. Effective risk management enables us to: accurately measure our risk profile and balance risk and reward within our risk appetite, increasing financial growth opportunities and mitigating potential loss or damage; protect Westpac s depositors, policyholders and investors by maintaining a strong balance sheet; embed adequate controls to guard against excessive risk or undue risk concentration; and meet our regulatory and compliance obligations. The 1st Line of Defence Risk identification, risk management and self-assurance Divisional business units are responsible for identifying, evaluating and managing the risks that they originate within approved risk appetite and policies. They are required to establish and maintain appropriate risk management controls, resources and self-assurance processes. The 2nd Line of Defence Establishment of risk management frameworks and policies and risk management oversight Our 2nd Line of Defence is a separate risk and compliance advisory, control and monitoring function which establishes frameworks, policies, limits and processes for the management, monitoring and reporting of risk. The 2nd Line of Defence may approve risks outside the authorities granted to the 1st Line. It also evaluates and opines on the adequacy and effectiveness of 1st Line controls and application of frameworks and policies and, where necessary, requires improvement and monitors the 1st Line s progress toward remediation of identified deficiencies. The 3rd Line of Defence assurance Our Group Audit function independently evaluates the adequacy and effectiveness of the Group s overall risk management framework and controls. Our overall risk management approach is summarised in the following diagram: Our overall risk management governance structure is set out in more detail in the table Risk Management Governance Structure included in this statement. We distinguish six main types of risk: credit risk the risk of financial loss where a customer or counterparty fails to meet their financial obligations to Westpac; liquidity risk the risk that the Group will be unable to fund assets and meet obligations as they become due; market risk the risk of an adverse impact on earnings resulting from changes in market factors, such as foreign Westpac Corporate Governance Statement

14 Corporate governance exchange rates, interest rates, commodity prices and equity prices. This includes interest rate risk in the banking book - the risk to interest income from a mismatch between the duration of assets and liabilities that arises in the normal course of business activities; conduct risk the risk arising from unfair or inappropriate behaviour or practices of the Westpac Group or its staff; operational risk the risk of loss resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes, people and systems or from external events. The definition is aligned to the regulatory (Basel II) definition, including legal and regulatory risk but excluding strategic and reputation risk; and compliance risk the risk of legal or regulatory sanction, financial or reputational loss, arising from our failure to abide by the compliance obligations required of us. In addition to, and linked to, these six main types of risk, we also manage the following risks: business risk the risk associated with the vulnerability of a line of business to changes in the business environment; sustainability risk the risk of reputational or financial loss due to failure to recognise or address material existing or emerging sustainability related environmental, social or governance issues; equity risk the potential for financial loss arising from movements in equity values. Equity risk may be direct, indirect or contingent; insurance risk the risk of mis-estimation of the expected cost of insured events, volatility in the number or severity of insured events, and mis-estimation of the cost of incurred claims; related entity (contagion) risk the risk that problems arising in other Westpac Group members compromise the financial and operational position of the authorised deposit-taking institution in the Westpac Group; and reputation risk the risk to earnings or capital arising from negative public opinion resulting from the loss of reputation or public trust and standing. Westpac has received advanced accreditation from APRA and the RBNZ under the Basel II capital framework, and uses the Advanced Internal Ratings Based (AIRB) approach for credit risk and the Advanced Measurement Approach (AMA) for operational risk when calculating regulatory capital. Board Risk & Compliance Committee The Board Risk & Compliance Committee comprises all of Westpac s independent, Non-executive Directors and is chaired by Elizabeth Bryan. As set out in its charter, the Board Risk & Compliance Committee: provides recommendations to the Board on Westpac Group s risk-reward strategy; sets risk appetite; reviews and approves the frameworks for managing risk, including capital, credit, liquidity, market, operational, compliance and reputation risk; reviews and approves the limits and conditions that apply to credit risk approval authority delegated to the CEO, CFO and CRO and any other officers of the Westpac Group to whom the Board has delegated credit approval authority; monitors the risk profile, performance, capital levels, exposures against limits and the management and control of our risks; monitors changes anticipated in the economic and business environment and other factors considered relevant to our risk profile and risk appetite; oversees the development and ongoing review of key policies that support our frameworks for managing risk; and may approve accepting risks beyond management s approval discretion. From the perspective of specific types of risk, the Board Risk & Compliance Committee s role includes: credit risk approving key policies and limits supporting the Credit Risk Management Framework, and monitoring the risk profile, performance and management of our credit portfolio; liquidity risk approving key policies and limits supporting the Liquidity Risk Management Framework, including our annual funding strategy and liquidity requirements, and recovery and resolutions plans and monitoring the liquidity risk profile; market risk approving key policies and limits supporting the Market Risk Management Framework, including, but not limited to, the Value at Risk and Net Interest Income at Risk limits, and monitoring the market risk profile; operational risk monitoring the operational risk profile, the performance of operational risk management and controls, and the development and ongoing review of operational risk policies supporting the Operational Risk Management Framework; reputation risk reviewing and approving the Reputation Risk Management Framework and reviewing the monitoring of the performance of reputation risk management and controls; and compliance risk reviewing compliance processes and our compliance with applicable laws, regulations and regulatory requirements, discussing with management and the external auditor any material correspondence with regulators or government agencies and any published reports that raise material issues, and reviewing complaints and whistleblower concerns. The Board Risk & Compliance Committee also: approves the Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process and in doing so reviews the outcomes of enterprise wide stress testing, sets the preferred capital ranges for regulatory capital having regard to Westpac internal economic capital measures, and reviews and monitors capital levels for consistency with the Westpac Group s risk appetite; provides relevant periodic assurances and disclosures to the Board Audit Committee regarding the operational integrity of the risk management framework; and refers to other Board Committees any matters that come to the attention of the Board Risk & Compliance Committee that are relevant for those respective Board Committees. Compliance Management Framework The Compliance Management Framework (the Framework) sets out our approach to managing compliance obligations and mitigating compliance risk, in order to operate within our compliance appetite and achieve our compliance objectives. To proactively manage our compliance risks, we must: 2015 Westpac Corporate Governance Statement 13

15 embed the requirements of our regulators into how we do business, how we conduct ourselves and how our systems and processes are designed and operate; comply with our legal obligations, regulatory requirements and voluntary codes of practice to which we subscribe, while being attentive to the needs of our clients; and maintain a compliance culture where everyone in every part of the Westpac Group has responsibility for compliance. The mechanisms we use to implement our approach include: maintaining a strong governance environment; identifying obligations, developing and maintaining Compliance Plans and implementing change; developing, implementing and testing compliance controls; and monitoring and reporting incidents, issues and risks. As with other forms of risk, 1st Line management is primarily responsible for managing compliance. This is supported by a dedicated 2nd Line Compliance function covering the Group and each area of the business. The Compliance function reports to the Chief Compliance Officer & Group General Counsel. Regular reports are provided to the Westpac Group Executive Risk Committee and the Board Risk & Compliance Committee on the status of compliance across the Group. Remuneration The Board Remuneration Committee assists the Board by ensuring that Westpac has coherent remuneration policies and practices that fairly and responsibly reward individuals having regard to performance, Westpac s risk management framework, the law and the highest standards of governance. The Board Remuneration Committee has been in place for the whole of the financial year and is comprised of four independent Non-executive Directors and is chaired by Ewen Crouch. All members of the Board Remuneration Committee are also members of the Board Risk & Compliance Committee, which assists in the integration of effective risk management into the remuneration framework. As set out in its charter, the Board Remuneration Committee: reviews and makes recommendations to the Board in relation to the Westpac Group Remuneration Policy (Group Remuneration Policy) and assesses the Group Remuneration Policy s effectiveness and its compliance with prudential standards; reviews and makes recommendations to the Board in relation to the individual remuneration levels of the CEO, Non-executive Directors, Group Executives, other Executives who report directly to the CEO, other persons whose activities in the Board s opinion affect the financial soundness of Westpac, any person specified by APRA, and any other person the Board determines; reviews and makes recommendations to the Board in relation to the remuneration structures for each category of persons covered by the Group Remuneration Policy; reviews and makes recommendations to the Board on corporate goals and objectives relevant to the remuneration of the CEO, and the performance of the CEO in light of these objectives; reviews and makes recommendations to the Board on the short-term and long-term incentive plans for Group Executives; reviews and makes recommendations to the Board in relation to approving equity based remuneration plans; and oversees general remuneration practices across the Group. The Board Remuneration Committee reviews and recommends to the Board the size of variable reward pools each year based on consideration of pre-determined business performance indicators and the financial soundness of Westpac. The Board Remuneration Committee also approves remuneration arrangements outside of the Group Remuneration Policy relating to individuals or groups of individuals which are significant because of their sensitivity, precedent or disclosure implications. In addition, the Board Remuneration Committee considers and evaluates the performance of senior executives when making remuneration determinations and otherwise as required. The Board Remuneration Committee also reviews and makes recommendations to the Board for the reduction or lapsing of incentive based equity grants to employees, where subsequent information or circumstances indicate that the grant was not justified. remuneration consultants are engaged by the Board Remuneration Committee to provide information across a range of issues including remuneration benchmarking, market practices and emerging trends and regulatory reforms. Further details of our remuneration framework are included in the Remuneration Report in Section 9 of the Directors report. The Board Remuneration Committee reviews and recommends the report for approval Westpac Corporate Governance Statement

16 Corporate governance Risk Management Governance Structure Westpac s risk management governance structure is set out in the table below: Board reviews and approves our overall risk management strategy. Board Risk & Compliance Committee (BRCC) provides recommendations to the Board on the Westpac Group s risk-reward strategy; sets risk appetite; reviews and approves frameworks for managing risk; reviews and approves the limits and conditions that apply to credit risk approval authority delegated to the CEO, CFO and CRO and any other officers of the Westpac Group to whom the Board has delegated authority; monitors our risk profile, performance, capital levels, exposures against limits and management and control of our risks; monitors changes anticipated in the economic and business environment and other factors relevant to our risk profile; oversees the development and ongoing review of key policies that support our frameworks for managing risk; and determines whether to accept risks beyond the approval discretion provided to management. Other Board Committees with a risk focus Board Audit Committee oversees the integrity of financial statements and financial reporting systems, and matters relating to taxation risks. Board Remuneration Committee reviews any matters raised by the BRCC with respect to risk-adjusted remuneration. Board Technology Committee oversees the technology strategy, implementation, and risks associated with major technology programs. Executive Team executes the Board-approved strategy; delivers the Group s various strategic and performance goals within the approved risk appetite; and monitors key risks within each business unit, capital adequacy and the Group s reputation. Executive risk committees Westpac Group Executive Risk Committee leads the management and oversight of material risks across the Westpac Group within the context of the risk appetite determined by the BRCC; oversees the embedding of the Risk Management Strategy in the Group s approach to risk governance; oversees risk-related management frameworks and key supporting policies; oversees the Group s credit, operational, compliance, and market risk profiles; oversees Reputation Risk and Sustainability Risk Management Frameworks and key supporting policies; and identifies emerging credit, operational, compliance and market risks and allocates responsibility for assessing impacts and implementing appropriate actions to address these. Westpac Group Asset & Liability Committee leads the optimisation of funding and liquidity risk-reward across the Group; reviews the level and quality of capital so that it is commensurate with the Group s risk profile, business strategy and risk appetite; oversees the Liquidity Risk Management Framework and key policies; oversees the Funding and Liquidity Risk Profile and Balance Sheet Risk Profile; and identifies emerging funding and liquidity risks and appropriate actions to address these Westpac Corporate Governance Statement 15

17 Risk Management Governance Structure (continued) Executive risk committees (continued) Westpac Group Credit Risk Committee leads the optimisation of credit risk-reward across the Group; reviews and oversees the Credit Risk-related Risk Management Frameworks and key supporting policies; oversees Westpac s credit risk profile; identifies emerging credit risks, allocates responsibility for assessing impacts, and responds as appropriate; and facilitates continuous improvement in credit risk management by providing a forum for testing risk tolerances and debating alternate approaches. Westpac Group Remuneration Oversight Committee provides assurance that the remuneration arrangements across the Group have been examined from a People, Risk and Finance perspective; responsible for ensuring that risk is embedded in all key steps in our remuneration framework; reviews and makes recommendations to the CEO for recommendation to the Board Remuneration Committee on the Group Remuneration Policy and provides assurance that remuneration arrangements across the Group encourage behaviour that supports Westpac s long-term financial soundness and the Risk Management Framework; reviews and monitors the remuneration arrangements (other than for Group Executives) for Responsible Persons (as defined in the Group s Statutory Officers Fit and Proper Policy), risk and financial control personnel, and all other employees for whom a significant portion of total remuneration is based on performance and whose activities, either individually or collectively, may affect the financial soundness of Westpac; and reviews and recommends to the CEO for recommendation to the Board Remuneration Committee the criteria and rationale for determining the total quantum of the Group variable reward pool. Risk and compliance functions Risk Function develops Group-level Risk Management Frameworks for approval by the BRCC; directs the review and development of key policies supporting the Risk Management Frameworks; develops division-specific policies, risk appetite statements, controls, procedures, and monitoring and reporting capability that align to the frameworks approved by the BRCC; establishes risk concentration limits and monitors risk concentrations; and monitors emerging risk issues. Compliance Function develops the Group-level compliance framework for approval by the BRCC; directs the review and development of compliance policies, compliance plans, controls and procedures; monitors compliance and regulatory obligations and emerging regulatory developments; and reports on compliance standards. internal review Group Audit reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of management controls for risk. Divisional business units Business Units responsible for identifying, evaluating and managing the risks that they originate within approved risk appetite policies; and establish and maintain appropriate risk management controls, resources and self-assurance processes Westpac Corporate Governance Statement